Forget The Past may head to Cheltenham next week for the Paddy Power Gold Cup after provided trainer Michael O'Brien with a welcome success in the featured 2m6f conditions chase.
The 7/4 joint favourite gained a vital edge when jumping past the blundering Light On The Broom at the final fence before holding that rival's renewed effort by a head.
'I'm pleased to get a winner as the horses have been under the weather. Their bloods and scopes are fine but they are just not running as they should be,' said O'Brien.
He added, 'The plan was to run in the Paddy Power Gold Cup and we'll have to go home and have a think about it now.'
O'Brien also had news of In Compliance saying, 'He pulled a muscle and will do his first bit of fast work on Saturday. Hopefully he will reappear in the John Durkan.'
Rindoon was given a 25/1 quote for the 'Arkle' from Cashmans after opening his account over fences in impressive fashion in the two miles beginners chase.
The Dusty Sheehy-trained gelding made virtually all under Ruby Walsh, going clear after three out to beat Albanov by an effortless 16 lengths.
'He settled well out in front today. We'll have a crack at all the big ones now and he'll go next for the Craddockstown Novice Chase at Punchestown on Sunday week,' said Sheehy.
Optimus Prime justified good support in the 2m6f beginners chase, although Paul Carberry's mount had luck on his side as leader Dreux fell three out and brought down Charlies First.
The 2/1 favourite, who will be entered for the Drinmore Chase, struck the front at the next fence and drew clear to beat Bold Fortune by eight lengths.
The John Hassett-trained High Oscar landed a nice touch when backed from 10/1 down to 13/2 prior to a game length victory under Martin Ferris in the 2m2f opportunity handicap chase.
The Hassett yard again made a big impression on the ring with Lough Ferrib (7/1-5/2 fav) in the 2m handicap hurdle but Davy Russell's mount could manage only fifth behind shock 20/1 winner Pipers Blaze.
Galistic made a disappointing hurdle debut in the mares maiden, returning with a cut leg after some poor jumping when 11th behind Good Thyne Diva (Eddie Power).
Direct Exit looks one to note after making a pleasing debut in the bumper, sweeping to the front early in the straight for Sean Byrne to easily beat the staying on Jackieandy by 3 1/2L.
